Campbell Wright has changed nations in biathlon. Instead of starting for New Zealand as before, the Skijäger is now starting for the USA. The winter sports enthusiast is particularly looking forward to the relay.
“I’ve never taken part in a relay and I’m more than thrilled. I think the format fits well with my strengths as an athlete. My other goals for the coming season are to improve and keep moving forward,” said the 21-year-old to the official website of the Biathlon World Federation IBU.
Last season, Wright finished 55th in the overall World Cup. At the Junior World Championships in Shchuchinsk, Kazakhstan, he won the gold medal in the sprint.
Wright is now moving from the New Zealand team to the US team. “The main reason I moved to the US is the incredible support system they’ve built around the athletes,” said the biathlete. “I’ve trained with them for the last season and got to know the guys well. It’s a privilege to train with them as they are motivated and everyone does their best every day.”
Biathlon coach full of praise
US head coach Armin Auchentaller is full of praise for the new signing. “Campbell’s support will be of great importance to the team. I would like to thank New Zealand for working with us on this project, they made the transition easy for us. Campbell has already been welcomed into our team and brings a lot of positive spirit with him,” said the biathlon coach.
Wright himself tweeted shortly after his move: “I’m glad I was able to share a little piece of Kiwi culture with the biathlon community and I have no intention of changing that. The only difference is that from now on I’ll be wearing the Stars and Stripes, but the fern will always be in my heart.”